O-rings play an essential role in protecting against leaks. Also known as toric joints, they are mechanical seals consisting of an elastomer material with a round cross-section.
You can seal the mating surface through which pressurized fluids, gases or air pass by installing an O-ring. When stated in the mating surface, the O-ring will create a seal. Even when exposed to heat and pressure, the O-ring will continue to seal the mating surface so that it doesn’t leak. O-rings are available in different standards, however, one of which is JIS.
Overview of JIS O-Rings
JIS O-rings are round, circular-shaped mechanical seals that are designed using the Japanese Industrial Standard. Developed by the Japanese Industrial Standards Committee, the Japanese Industrial Standard is a set of design standards for industrial activities. They cover everything from rolled cold- and hot-rolled stainless steel to screws, bolts, O-rings and more.
JIS O-rings use the Japanese Industrial Standard. They look like other types of O-rings, and they are used for the same purpose of sealing mating surfaces. But only JIS O-rings are designed using the standard of its namesake. They follow the Japanese Industrial Standard, which dictates their construction and overall design.
The Japanese Industrial Standard was developed for industrial activities by companies in Japan. With that said, products that follow the Japanese Industrial Standard aren’t limited to Japan. Products such as JIS O-rings are used throughout the world. The “JIS” label simply means the follow the Japanese Industrial Standard.
Common Applications JIS O-Rings
JIS O-rings are commonly used in the automotive industry. Cars, trucks and other automobiles have pressurized lines. Mechanical seals such as JIS O-rings prevent leaks from around the mating surfaces where these pressurized lines meet other lines or equipment.
Other industries in which JIS O-rings are commonly used include the aerospace, semiconductor and manufacturing industries.
Benefits of JIS O-Rings
JIS O-rings are available in metric sizes. The metric system, of course, is used throughout the world. With the exception of the United States, Liberia and Myanmar, in fact, most countries use the metric system — including Japan. This means JIS O-rings are available in metric sizes.
JIS O-rings are designed with stringent standards. These design standards dictate the material from which they are constructed, their size, sealing properties and more. Therefore, you can rest assured knowing that JIS O-rings will provide a reliable and effective sealing solution.
You can choose from one of several different types of JIS O-rings. Buna JIS O-rings, for instance, are defined by their nitrile rubber (NBR) construction, whereas JIS polyurethane O-rings are defined by their polyurethane construction. Each material offers its own benefits, so you should consider the application when choosing JIS O-rings.